As marijuana is going mainstream, it is more accessible than ever before. Most medical and recreational users of the plant will not experience any problems. However, given its increasing popularity and use, it is the perfect time to ask the question – how addictive is marijuana?
For a small number of people, the answer to this depends on various factors including lifestyle and mental health. A small number of people will depend on the drug. Some may even suffer symptoms of addiction. In this article, we examine the symptoms of marijuana addiction and the treatment options available.
How Addictive is Marijuana Psychologically?
Marijuana is quite a safe drug when not misused. Problems may occur when it is overused or abused. Users who may be suffering hidden mental health conditions suffer a greater risk. These people may use marijuana to mask the symptoms of their condition without treating the root cause.
For a certain percentage of people, notably those who are coping with depression, anxiety or other mental illness may find marijuana inflames their symptoms in the long term. They may not notice it because of the short term masking effects.
Effects of psychological addiction can include increased aggression, decreased motivation and a worsening of anxiety when sober.
How Addictive is Marijuana Physically?
Marijuana does not have as severe physical symptoms as other substances. However, the truth is that when it is overused, they will become noticeable. These range from minor issues, to feeling as if you cannot function without using marijuana.
Other physical symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- A feeling of irritability
- Restlessness
- Headaches
These symptoms can be severe enough in some users to affect their daily life. As the brain adapts to the effects of THC, the sensitivity of the cannabinoid receptors is reduced. This leaves the user needed to ingest more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This, in turn, worsens physical symptoms.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment Options
Reducing the amount of marijuana used or quitting completely can be difficult. This is especially true for users suffering from a mixture of physical and psychological symptoms of addiction. A key to quitting or cutting back is finding other hobbies that replace the habit of smoking and trying to keep the mind busy.
Of course, this is only one part of an overall plan, which can also include counseling, inpatient programs or outpatient programs and tailored therapy. A varied approach that also includes an aftercare plan is the optimal way to start the path towards lasting sobriety. The answer to the question ‘ihow addictive is marijuana’ is that it can be, but with professional help, it is possible to lead a happy, marijuana-free life.
Get Help For Marijuana Addiction
If you or somebody you know is asking, “how addictive is marijuana,” help is only a phone call away. We offer a supportive and compassionate environment that is designed to give you a head start on the road to recovery. A quality rehab can be your best ally so call us to discuss treatment options on 866.262.0531.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
